to put it simply — simplifying
expressionC1IELTS 7+neutraloccasional
Used to introduce a basic or easy-to-understand explanation of something that could be more complicated.
Say it like a native
Textbook Expressed in the most elementary terms possible, it means we have run out of money.
Native To put it simply, we're broke.
'To put it simply' is the natural signpost for a plain explanation; the formal paraphrase is clumsy.
Pattern: to put it simply, [clause]
In use
- To put it simply, if you don't save money, you might struggle in an emergency.daily life
- Well, to put it simply, I think technology has made our lives easier, but it can also make us more distracted if we're not careful.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ To put it simple, we lost money.
✓ To put it simply, we lost money.
It's the adverb 'simply', not 'simple'.
Common collocations
to put it simply,— it means, we, just, basically
Don't confuse it
'To put it simply' is more conversational and direct than 'in summary' or 'in simple terms', which can sound more formal or written.